Nelson is a provincial urban electorate centred on Nelson City, the commercial and cultural hub of the top of the South Island. Geographically isolated by ranges to the south and west, the area has a strong independent streak and a distinct identity tied to its sunny climate and coastal lifestyle. The electorate functions as a gateway to the region’s three national parks and is defined by its busy waterfront, heritage architecture, and vibrant arts community. The local economy is diverse and heavily reliant on primary industries and the "blue economy." Port Nelson is a critical asset, supporting one of the largest fishing fleets in Australasia, alongside major seafood processing operations. The surrounding region is also a powerhouse for horticulture, particularly apples, kiwifruit, hops and forestry, while tourism remains a significant employer. Demographically, the electorate has an older median age than the national average and a predominantly European population, though it is becoming increasingly diverse. Politically, Nelson is currently one of the country's most marginal seats. While it was a National Party stronghold for decades under long-serving MP Nick Smith, it swung to Labour in 2020. Labour’s Rachel Boyack retained the seat in 2023 by an extraordinarily narrow margin - confirmed by a judicial recount - making it a key battleground. The electorate has a history of high engagement and often sees close contests reflecting the city's mix of conservative business owners and progressive lifestyle voters. In the 2025 boundary review the Nelson electorate’s boundaries were unchanged from the 2020 review.